Plymouth Institute of Education

BEd (Hons) Primary (KS1/KS2 with QTS)

This versatile and dynamic primary education degree with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is the ideal preparation for a successful and rewarding career in primary teaching, enabling you to embark on your teaching career straight after finishing your studies. Building on long established partnerships, you will have ample opportunities to learn with experienced practitioners. From the start of the course you will work in a range of schools gradually building up confidence and expertise.

Careers with this subject
Discover employment and further study opportunities that you could consider once you graduate with a BEd Primary degree, and learn how you can stand out to graduate employers.
Where could your degree take you?
Key features
  • Skills and subject knowledge: this carefully structured course will provide you with the skills and subject knowledge required to teach all the National Curriculum subjects through working with experienced and passionate tutors in interactive and practical teaching sessions. 
  • Subject focus area: you’ll also be given the chance to select a curriculum area to focus upon in years two and three and link this subject to your final-year research dissertation. The comprehensive primary programme ensures you are well-equipped to teach across the curriculum, but also offer additional skills in a chosen subject area, thereby enhancing your employability
  • Curriculum focus areas: final qualification can have a curriculum focus linked. Current subjects offered are Mathematics, English, Science, Music, Art and Design, Geography, History, MFL, Religious Education, Physical Education, Computing, Design & Technology 
  • Close links to the Master of Education (MA Ed): this link enables students to achieve enhanced career progression in a profession in which masters level attainment is increasingly valued.
  • Work based learning opportunities: students benefit from a wide range of placement types within our Partnership of over 500 schools and other settings, from single days to extended block placements to develop and consolidate QTS standards.
  • Professional identity: from the very start of the programme you are considered as a teacher in development. The programme supports you as you develop your professional standards and identity.
  • Research-informed teaching: not only are all modules enhanced by tutors’ active research interests but students are immersed in a research culture and benefit from learning about the advantages of researching their practice first hand.
  • Student support: within the Plymouth Institute of Education there is a strong ethos of support for all students. Your Professional tutor will actively engage with you throughout the BEd programme to offer guidance and support in both academic and pastoral terms.
  • OfSTED recognised: recent inspection rated the Primary ITE provision at Plymouth as good in all aspects, with particular strengths in the partnership led elements of the programmes and the quality of the graduates.
Course details

  • Year 1

  • In your first year, you’ll focus on your own subject knowledge. You’ll study modules looking at the role of the teacher, looking closely at the primary curriculum in order to get an understanding of the content, and consider how theory underpins the practice of teaching. You’ll also gain practical experience of the classroom with a two-week and a four-week school placement across the primary age range.

    Core modules

    • Education Core Knowledge and Pedagogy 1 (ECKP401)

      During the course of this module students will become familiar with, enhance and broaden their own subject knowledge and understanding in order to support learners in FS, KS1 & KS2 in maths, English and science.

    • Education Primary Curriculum Module 1 (EPCM401)

      During the course of this module students will explore the FS Framework and National Curriculum for KS1 & KS2, developing their subject knowledge and pedagogic knowledge. They will be guided to design and develop engaging learning opportunities for children. They will come to understand how children's learning can be appropriately assessed, with reference to clear learning objectives.

    • Education Primary Theory and Praxis (EPTP401)

    • Education Settings Placement Module - Year 1 (ESPM411)

      Students work to begin taking a leadership role in classrooms. The emphasis is on teaching in the primary curriculum subjects of the National Curriculum. This experience will complement campus-based work in Education Studies, Core and Broader Curriculum modules. The experience provides opportunities for supportive critical appraisal of work undertaken.

  • Year 2

  • In your second year, you’ll build on your growing knowledge and expertise, particularly with Inclusion and Special Educational Needs, looking at how the core curriculum of Maths, English and Science is taught in schools, and looking to choose your curriculum focus for Year 3. You’ll also look to further your understanding of the mathematics or English curriculum in more detail. Classroom experience will come from a 2 part school experience within the same school to look at how children progress over the year.

    Core modules

    • Education Core Knowledge and Pedagogy 2 (ECKP501)

      During the course of this module students will learn how to apply their own subject knowledge and understanding, along with learning theory and pedagogy, to ensure effective learning of maths, English and science for the full range of learners in FS and primary settings, incorporate TEL as appropriate.

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (KS1/KS2) (EMOP501B)

      Those on the Primary (KS1/KS2) programme will follow a module based upon the further development of either English or mathematics practice and pedagogy, which will more fully underpin their teaching.

    • Education Primary Theory & Praxis 2 (EPTP501)

      This module aims to give students opportunities to analyse principles which underpin effective teaching and learning, to consider their own attitudes and values and to develop understanding of how to promote learning. This module will look at diversity amongst learners and look at aspects of difference such as LGBTQ+ and SEND.

    • Educational Settings Placement Module - Year 2 (ESPM511)

      Students undertake a leadership role in classrooms. The emphasis is on progression in the core and broader curriculum subjects of the National Curriculum. This experience will complement campus-based work in Education Studies, Core and Broader Curriculum modules. The experience provides opportunities for supportive critical appraisal of work undertaken.

  • Final year

  • In your final year, you’ll develop your understanding and knowledge regarding your curriculum focus subject, as well as producing your dissertation. You’ll reflect on your professional identity and how to shape your teaching practice for the future. You’ll also look at how your chosen subject fits into the rest of the primary curriculum. You’ll gain significant practical experience on a 10-week school experience, where you’ll take full responsibility for the class. You’ll also have extensive support in obtaining, and preparing for, your first post.

    Core modules

    • Education Dissertation (EDIS601)

      This module enables students to use the skills, experience and specialist subject knowledge they have acquired previously to attempt a significant piece of original research. They will relate their research to pedagogy and its impact on children's learning. All students will be expected to undertake the assignment for the subject focus award which they have chosen.

    • Education Primary Curriculum Module 2 (EPCM601)

      During the course of this module students will further enhance and deepen their subject knowledge and pedagogic knowledge across the curriculum, including knowledge related to their chosen Exit Award. They will be challenged to design and develop engaging learning opportunities for children, justifying their decisions with reference to relevant reading, research and first-hand experience. They will demonstrate a thorough understanding of why children's learning should be assessed and how this can be achieved appropriately, with reference to clearly articulated and well-chosen learning objectives and success criteria.

    • Education Settings Placement Module - Year 3 (ESPM611)

      Students work to consolidate their role in classrooms. The emphasis is on assessing within the core and broader curriculum subjects of the National Curriculum. This experience will complement campus-based work in Education Studies, Core and Specialism modules. The experience provides opportunities for supportive critical appraisal of work undertaken.

    Optional modules

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Art and Design) (EMOP601AD)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Computing) (EMOP601CO)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Design and Technology) (EMOP601DT)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (English) (EMOP601EN)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Geography) (EMOP601GE)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (History) (EMOP601HI)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Maths) (EMOP601MA)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (MFL) (EMOP601ML)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Music) (EMOP601MU)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Physical Education) (EMOP601PE)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Religious Education) (EMOP601RE)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

    • Education Moving to Outstanding Practice (Science) (EMOP601SC)

      This module offers students the opportunity to become an advocate and outstanding practitioner for their chosen programme of KS1/KS2

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

BEd (Hons) Primary Programme Specification 2021 22 6631

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

In light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the changeable nature of the situation and any updates to government guidance, we may need to make further, last minute adjustments to how we deliver our teaching and learning on some or all of our programmes, at any time during the academic year. We want to reassure you that even if we do have to adjust the way in which we teach our programmes, we will be working to maintain the quality of the student learning experience and learning outcomes at all times.
Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

112

All appropriately qualified candidates will be given equal consideration during the selection process. University of Plymouth does not tolerate discrimination on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, colour, disability, religion, nationality, age, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant distinction.

Academic requirements

  • All applicants are required to have GCSE mathematics, English language and science at grade C or above. Equivalent qualifications may be considered. We offer our own GCSE Maths equivalency programme. 
  • 28 IB points.
  • BTEC National Extended Diploma DMM.
  • Pass Access to HE Diploma with at least 33 credits at Merit or Distinction.
  • T level, merit, any subject.
  • All candidates must be able to reflect on some experience in relevant educational setting(s).
  • There is also a requirement to pass minimum standards for literacy and numeracy.
  • English language requirements.
  • We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

BTEC National Diploma modules

 If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Non-academic requirements

 
  • All candidates will be required to complete a satisfactory DBS (formerly CRB) Enhanced Disclosure, register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority and complete a criminal convictions self-declaration form.
  • All candidates must be deemed fit to teach.

An interview is a pre-requisite for entry onto this programme

All candidates are required to attend an interview. Interview days are conducted by the programme lead representative and include a practising teacher who represents the wider partnership and offers an employer perspective on suitability for the profession. Find more information about interviews in the Institute's interview pages.
For a full list of all acceptable qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Fees, costs and funding
Student 2022-2023 2023-2024
Home £9,250 £9,250
International £14,600 £16,300
Part time (Home) £770 £770
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs.

Essential technology for your studies 

The university recommends that all students have access to their own technology to access their programme. If you’re purchasing a laptop, you should review the specifications listed below, but if you’re unsure about the requirements for your course, ensure that you ask your programme team before you buy anything:
  • Minimum specifications for basic processing (enabling the use of university web-based systems and general-purpose applications, such as Office 365): Intel Core i3, 8GB RAM, SSD storage, Full HD display or equivalent, Windows 10.
  • Recommended specifications for students intending to run a variety of software applications: Intel Core i5, 16GB RAM, SSD storage, Full HD display or equivalent, Windows 10.

Bursaries and funds

If you’re experiencing financial hardship due to extra costs, unexpected health issues or other factors, there are bursaries and funds to help you. Take a look at our Bursaries and other funding options page.

How to apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). 

UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code. 

To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Why study BEd Primary?

Our BEd Primary degree is the ideal preparation for a rewarding and successful career in primary teaching. You will be able to gain relevant work experience while improving your team work, communication, analysis, evaluation, interpretation and presentation skills. Graduates for our course are now employed in a wide variety of roles including primary teacher, learning centre manager and special needs coordinator.

7 reasons to study BEd Primary

<p>ABC primary education close up</p>

Interviews with Plymouth Institute of Education

For many of our courses successful applicants will need to attend an interview and undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service assessment.
Learn more about your interview, with information specific to your programme of study
 
Two PIE Students at whiteboard

Inspiring the next generation

Sophie Shaw, BEd Primary (Maths Specialism) student

Teaching is a rewarding career and my aim is to become a strong female role model for the next generation. I want to inspire, motivate and encourage children, to stimulate their imagination and to learn from them, as they will learn from me.

I have no fears going into teaching, because Plymouth has fully equipped me with the skills and competencies I require for a teaching position.

Discover where Sophie's passion for teaching comes from

<p>Sophie Shaw, Plymouth Pioneers</p>

See what our graduates have to say

People

* These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni (Unistats) is updated annually in September.